CN110402154B

CN110402154B - Manifold for medical waste collection system

Info

Publication number: CN110402154B
Application number: CN201880017198.0A
Authority: CN
Inventors: M·彼得森; A·尚迪利亚; S·艾沙姆; S·里森纳
Original assignee: Stryker Corp
Current assignee: Stryker Corp
Priority date: 2017-03-17
Filing date: 2018-03-15
Publication date: 2022-09-20
Anticipated expiration: 2038-03-15
Also published as: EP3595737A1; CN115252927A; AU2018236347A1; WO2018170233A1; US20230330317A1; CA3056764A1; AU2018236347B2; US11712507B2; JP7161486B2; JP2020509886A; EP3595737B1; US20200061255A1; CN110402154A; EP4218847A2; EP4218847A3

Abstract

A manifold for a medical/surgical waste collection system. The outlet opening and the fitting are in fluid communication with a manifold volume within the housing. The fitting receives a suction line. A filter element having a porous feature is placed within the housing such that a fluid communication path is established across the filter element. The porous features trap material entrained within the fluid. The material collection volume is at least partially located distal and below the bottom of the filter element. As fluid and substance are drawn through the fluid communication path, the substance collects within the substance collection volume. A flow diverter may be positioned within the housing for directing the material toward the material collection volume. The substance collection volume may be defined at least in part by a tissue trap removably coupled to the housing.

Description

Manifold for medical waste collection system

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims priority and ownership to U.S. provisional patent application No.62/472,969, filed on 2017, 3, month 17, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Technical Field

The present disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for collecting waste generated during surgical procedures. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a manifold for a medical/surgical waste collection system that reduces the likelihood of waste entrained within a fluid flow disrupting the operation of the medical/surgical waste collection system.

Background

A by-product of some medical procedures and surgical procedures is the production of liquid, semi-solid, and solid waste. The liquid waste may include bodily fluids such as blood and irrigation solution that is introduced to the surgical site where the procedure is performed. Solid and semi-solid waste generated during surgery may include tissue debris and pieces of surgical material present at the site. Regardless of the state of the waste, it is desirable that the waste be collected once produced so that it neither fouls the surgical site nor becomes a biohazard in the operating room or other location where the procedure is being performed.

Known systems for collecting waste at a surgical site generally include a suction source, a tube extending from the suction source, and a container positioned between the tube and the suction source. When the system is activated, waste is drawn through the open end of the pipe. The suction draws the waste through the conduit so that it flows into and is temporarily stored in the container. One exemplary system is a surgical waste collection system sold under the trademark NEPTUNE by smith Corporation (Stryker Corporation) (kara marumr, michigan). Some variations of the system include a mobile unit that includes a suction pump and at least one canister. The mobile unit serves to position the system relatively close to the patient, thereby reducing the extent to which the suction tubing, which also clutter the operating room at all times, interferes with the surgical personnel. Further description of the features of certain variations of the system is disclosed in commonly owned U.S. patent publication No.2007/0135779 and international publication No.2007/0760570, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

It is readily appreciated that collecting semi-solid and solid waste entrained within liquid waste is associated with technical challenges. A manifold may be provided that includes a filter element for trapping entrained semi-solid and solid waste that may potentially clog the offline components of the medical/surgical waste system. In addition, the manifold may be formed from disposable items, thereby eliminating the need to sterilize the manifold and its complex subcomponents. Thus, personnel disposing of the used manifold need only contact the outer surface of the component when disposing thereof, thereby reducing or eliminating exposure of personnel to waste collected by the system.

Over time, semi-solid and solid waste entrained within the liquid waste may clog the filter element. Clogging of the filter element can result in a significant reduction in the level of suction through the manifold and can likewise result in a loss of suction at the surgical site. If complete loss of suction occurs, the procedure may need to be interrupted and the manifold replaced. Interrupting surgery runs counter to the promise of modern surgical practice to perform the procedure as quickly as possible to minimize the time a patient is left in anesthesia and limit the exposure of the normally hidden internal tissues to the open environment.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a manifold for a medical/surgical waste collection system that overcomes one or more of the above-described disadvantages.

Disclosure of Invention

The present disclosure relates to a new and useful manifold for use with medical/surgical waste collection units. The manifold of the present disclosure is designed to accommodate relatively more semi-solid and solid waste (also referred to as "material") entrained within the fluid. In one aspect, the manifold reduces the amount of material that encounters the filter element, and in another aspect, the manifold includes a larger volume that contains material once the filter element begins to clog. In both of these respects, the manifold of the present disclosure reduces the likelihood that the manifold will plug in for a given period of time, and as such extends its useful life.

The manifold includes a housing having at least one sidewall defining a manifold volume and a distal portion defining a distal end and including a longitudinal axis extending proximally from the distal end of the distal portion. An outlet opening is located within the proximal portion of the housing and is in fluid communication with the manifold volume. The manifold includes a filter element positioned within the housing. The filter element includes a base, a mouth positioned opposite the base relative to the outlet opening, a basket extending between the base and the mouth, and a porous feature located within the basket. At least one fitting defining an aperture is in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the fitting adapted to receive a suction line for drawing fluid into the manifold volume. A fluid communication path is established from the bore of the fitting through the manifold volume and across the filter element to the outlet opening. The porous feature is adapted to trap matter entrained within the fluid as the fluid is drawn through the fluid communication path. A projection extends downwardly from the at least one sidewall to at least partially define a material collection volume within the housing. The matter collection volume is positioned axially between the bore of the fitting and the mouth of the filter element, and is further positioned opposite the basket of the filter element relative to the longitudinal axis. As fluid and substance are drawn through the fluid communication path, the substance collects within the substance collection volume before encountering the mouth of the filter element.

The manifold may include a tissue trap defining a material collection volume. The tissue trap may be removably coupled to the housing with complementary coupling features to allow retrieval of material collected within the material collection volume. The tissue trap may be substantially conical or pyramidal in shape. The tissue trap may be at least partially transparent, and further include a scale for identifying a volume of material captured within the tissue trap.

The filter element may include a breather tube coupled to the basket and positioned at least partially axially between the bore of the fitting and the mouth of the filter element. The breather tube defines a breather tube void space in fluid communication with the outlet opening and separate from the basket void space defined by the basket of the filter element. The filter element includes a porous feature within each of the basket and the breather tube. A second fluid communication path is established from the aperture through a vent tube void space of the vent tube to the outlet opening. Suction is maintained through the second fluid-communication path to draw fluid through the second fluid-communication path after substantially all of the porous features of the basket are plugged with the trapped substance and the substance substantially occupies the basket void space.

The manifold may include a flow diverter located within the housing and positioned axially between the bore of the fitting and the mouth of the filter element. A flow diverter is positioned within the fluid communication path. The flow diverter directs at least a portion of the fluid and material being drawn through the fluid communication path toward the material collection volume. The flow redirector may comprise baffles oriented at non-right angles relative to a longitudinal axis of the manifold.

The basket of the filter element may be cylindrical and include an annular head extending from the cylindrical basket with an annular head. The annular head may be frustoconical in shape and include a porous feature.

Drawings

Advantages of the present disclosure will be readily appreciated, as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings.

Fig. 1 depicts a medical/surgical waste collection system to which the manifold of the present disclosure is coupled.

Fig. 2 illustrates a manifold in cross-section, wherein the manifold is disposed in a manifold receiver of a medical/surgical waste collection unit, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the manifold receiver of fig. 2.

Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the manifold of fig. 2.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 2 with the manifold receiver removed.

Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a proximal portion of the manifold of fig. 4.

Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a distal portion of the manifold of fig. 4.

FIG. 8 is a distal perspective view of the filter element shown in FIG. 2 and placed within the housing of the manifold of FIG. 4.

Fig. 9 is a proximal perspective view of the filter element of fig. 8.

Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the filter element of fig. 2.

Fig. 11 is a front view of the manifold of fig. 4 with a schematic representation of the material collection volume and waste flow through the manifold.

Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a manifold according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of fig. 12.

FIG. 14 is a distal perspective view of the filter element shown in FIG. 13 and placed within the housing of the manifold of FIG. 12.

FIG. 15 is a rear perspective view of the filter element of FIG. 14.

Fig. 16 is a distal plan view of the filter element of fig. 14.

Fig. 17 is a front view of the manifold of fig. 12 with a schematic representation of the material collection volume and waste flow through the manifold.

Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a manifold according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of fig. 18.

Fig. 20 is a distal perspective view of the manifold of fig. 18.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the flow redirector.

Fig. 22 is a distal perspective view of the flow redirector of fig. 21.

Fig. 23 is a proximal perspective view of the flow redirector of fig. 21.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 shows a medical/surgical waste collection system 20. The waste collection system 20 may include a mobile unit 22, the mobile unit 22 having a base 24 for supporting the mobile unit 22. Certain lids and door assemblies that are typically coupled to the base 24 are not present in fig. 1, and thus the normally hidden components of the mobile unit 22 can be seen. Wheels 26 are attached to the bottom of the base 24 to provide mobility for the waste collection system 20, for example along a floor surface. Two

canisters

28 and 30 are supported on the base 24. The first one of the tanks 28 has a relatively large internal volume, for example, between about 10 liters and 40 liters. A second tank 30 is positioned above the tank 28. The second tank 30 has a relatively small volume, for example, between about 1 liter and 10 liters. In some configurations, only one canister may be used.

The waste collection system 20 includes a manifold receiver 40 coupled to the upper portions 36, 38 of the

tanks

28, 30. Manifold receiver 40 is configured to removably receive a manifold 60, 168, 242 to be described. In particular, each manifold receiver 40, best shown in fig. 2 and 3, is formed with an aperture 44, which aperture 44 is closed at a proximal end and open at a distal end. Internal to manifold receiver 40 is a fitting 49 extending forward from the proximal end of bore 44. A conduit 42 extends from the fitting 49 and establishes a fluid communication path from the manifold 60, 168, 242 to one of the

canisters

28, 30 with which the manifold receiver 40 is associated.

Manifold receiver 40 may include a collar 41 defining an open distal end of bore 44, wherein

manifold

60, 168, 242 is inserted into receiver 40 through collar 41. As shown in fig. 3, the collar 41 is further formed to define two outwardly extending

slots

43, 45. One of the slots 43 subtends an arc that is larger than the arc subtended by the other of the slots 45. At least one groove 47 is present at the proximal end of each

slot

43, 45. A channel 47 extends outwardly from the bore 44 between the proximal ends of the

slots

43, 44.

The manifold 60, 168, 242 is configured to receive at least one suction line 50 (shown in fig. 1) in a manner to be described. The distal end of each suction line 50 is attached to the suction applicator 48. Fig. 1 shows the suction applicator 48 as a handpiece specifically and completely designed to apply suction. It is understood that suction applicator 48 may take other forms, for example, being incorporated into another surgical tool (e.g., endoscope, ablation tool, etc.) applied to the surgical site to accomplish tasks other than applying suction.

Medical/surgical waste collection system 20 also includes suction pump 58. Conduits 54, 56 (shown in phantom in fig. 1) are in fluid communication with each of the

tanks

28, 30 to an inlet port of a suction pump 58. When the suction pump 58 is actuated, the resulting suction draws material into one or both of the

canisters

28, 30 through the

manifolds

60, 168, 242 and the manifold receiver 40. Waste is precipitated from the stream. And the waste is stored until empty. The gas and in some cases the debris of the waste entrained in the gas is directed toward the suction pump 58. An additional filter (not shown) may be located within the fluid communication path to trap material, such as virus and bacteria sized material, prior to drawing the stream into the aspiration pump 58 and expelling it from the aspiration pump 58. As noted above, aspects of the medical/surgical waste collection system 20 including the description of the manifold receiver 40 are disclosed in commonly owned U.S. patent publication No.2007/0135779 and international publication No.2007/0760570, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

I. First embodiment

Referring now to fig. 2, 4 and 5, the manifold 60 includes a housing 62 having a distal portion 88 and a proximal portion 64. As used herein, "distal" (D) means toward the surgical site where suction is applied, and "proximal" (P) means away from the surgical site (see compass in fig. 5, 13 and 19). In other words, the proximal and

distal portions

64, 88 form at least one sidewall of the housing 62 of the manifold 60. The side walls of the housing 62 define a manifold volume 65 of the manifold 60 to be described in more detail. With further reference to fig. 6 and 7, the proximal portion 64 may be considered to be open (when not coupled with the distal portion 88), and the distal portion 88 is configured to cover the open end of the proximal portion 64. The proximal portion 64 may be generally tubular or cylindrical in shape. The proximal portion 64 is sized to seat in the bore 44 of the manifold receiver 40. The proximal portion 64 is also formed with a base plate 66 defining a proximal end of the manifold 60. Manifold 60 includes an outlet opening 68 in fluid communication with manifold volume 65 at or adjacent the proximal end of housing 62. In the illustrated embodiment, the base plate 66 is formed to define the outlet opening 68. The outlet opening 68 is sized to receive the fitting 49 located inside the manifold receiver 40. A drip stop 70 may be placed over the outlet opening 68. When manifold 60 is disconnected from manifold receiver 40, drip stop 70 prevents additional fluid from flowing out of outlet opening 68.

With continued reference to fig. 6 and 7, a plurality of arcuately spaced-apart lobes 72 may extend distally forward from the distal end of the proximal portion 64 (three lobes are identified in fig. 6). Some of the projections 72 may subtend a different arc relative to other projections, and some of the projections 72 may have different arc lengths. The ledge 72 helps align and secure the proximal portion 64 to the distal portion 88. The proximal portion 64 is also formed with a lip 74 extending radially outward from the outer surface of the proximal portion 64. The lip 74 is typically positioned a centimeter or less from the distal end of the proximal portion 64. The distal portion 88 may include a tubular neck 90, the neck 90 being sized to seat on the distal end of the proximal portion 64. A plurality of ribs 92 may extend inwardly from the inner surface of the neck 90 (two ribs are identified in fig. 7). The projections 72 and ribs 92 are collectively arranged to ensure that the proximal portion 64 is in proper rotational alignment with the distal portion 88 when the proximal portion 64 is inserted into the neck 90. The proximal portion 64 and the neck 90 are further sized such that when the proximal portion 64 is inserted in the neck 90, the lip 74 abuts an inner wall of the distal portion 88 to minimize leakage between the proximal portion 64 and the distal portion 88. The distal portion 88 may also include

lobes

95, 97 that project radially outward from the outer surface of the neck 90. The

lugs

95, 97 extend outwardly from a location immediately forward of the proximal end of the neck 90. The

projections

95, 97 may subtend arcs having different lengths. One of the projections 95 is sized to seat in one of the slots 43 and the other of the projections 97 is sized to seat in the other slot 45. The

lobes

95, 97 are further dimensioned to rotate within the groove 47, the groove 47 extending arcuately from the distal end of the

slots

43, 45. The placement of the

tabs

95, 97 in the

slots

43, 45 facilitates proper rotational orientation of the manifold 60 within the bore 44 when the manifold 60 is placed in the manifold receiver 40. The projections may be omitted in some configurations, or may take other forms than those explicitly described above.

Fig. 4 shows that the distal portion 88 is shaped to include a head 96 distal to the neck 90. The head 96 may optionally include an upper portion 98 and a lower portion 102, wherein the upper portion 98 is an extension of the neck 90. In other words, the upper portion 98 has the same radius of curvature as the neck portion 90 and generally exhibits a continuous structure. The lower portion 102 is located below the upper portion 98 and projects outwardly from an adjacent portion of the neck 90. In the illustrated embodiment, the transition panel 99 may extend between the lower portion 102 and an adjacent portion of the neck 90. The transition panel 99 may at least partially define a protrusion 107 of the manifold 60 to be described.

The distal portion 88 of the manifold 60 may include a face plate 110 defining a distal end of the manifold 60. The manifold 60 includes at least one fitting 112 at a distal end, wherein the fitting 112 is adapted to receive the suction line 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the manifold 60 includes four fittings 112. The fitting 112 may extend distally from the panel 110. The fitting 112 defines an aperture in fluid communication with the manifold volume 65, and more particularly, the aperture opens into the manifold volume 65 proximate the panel 110. With the suction line 50 coupled to the fitting 112, substances and fluids may be drawn from the surgical site into the manifold volume 65. Manifold 60 may further include a fence plate (fencing panel)114 extending forward from panel 110. The fence panel 114 is a series of rectangular stepped wall-like structures that function as finger rests that allow the manifold 60 to be manipulated when initially positioning the manifold 60 within the tracheal receptor 40. The fitting 112 extends distally forward of the fence panel 114.

The filter element 118, now described with reference to fig. 5 and 8-10, is placed within the housing 62. The filter element 118 may be removably coupled to the housing 62. The filter element 118 may include a basket 120 defined between a base 122 and a mouth 123, wherein the base 122 forms a proximal end of the filter element 118 and the mouth 123 forms a distal end of the filter element 118. In the illustrated embodiment, basket 120 is generally, but not completely, cylindrical to form a tubular sleeve 124 extending between base 122 and mouth 123. When positioned within the housing 62, at least a portion of the sleeve 124, including the base portion 122, is positioned within the proximal portion 64. In certain embodiments, the filter element 118 includes one or more ribs 128 that project outwardly or radially from the outer surface of the sleeve 124. The ribs 128 extend longitudinally along the outer surface of the sleeve 124 and are sized to fit the inner diameter of the proximal portion 64 such that the ribs 128 radially align the filter element 118 and support the filter element 118 within the housing 62. The rotational alignment between the filter element 118 and the housing 62 is facilitated by the tabs 130, which tabs 130 project outwardly near the mouth 123 of the sleeve 124. As shown in fig. 8, the filter element 118 may be configured with two pairs of protrusions 130, each pair of protrusions lying on parallel axes. The bosses 130 are adapted to be positioned between ribs 92 (see fig. 7) integral with the proximal portion 64 to prevent rotation of the filter element 118 relative to the proximal portion 64. The filter element 118 may also include an additional protrusion 134 extending distally forward from the mouth 123 of the sleeve 124. The projection 134 may be L-shaped and may subtend different arcs about the circumference defined by the basket 120. The distal portion of each tab 134 extends radially outward from a proximal portion that extends distally axially to the sleeve 124. The projections 134 are configured to be positioned between the ribs 92 (see fig. 7) located on the interior of the distal portion 88. The ribs 92 and the bosses 134 are collectively formed such that when the manifold 60 is assembled, the basket 120 is in the proper angular orientation relative to the manifold volume 65 located within the proximal portion 64 and the material collection volume 106 to be described located within the distal portion 88. The filter element 118 may be further formed to define a groove 126, the groove 126 extending circumferentially around the sleeve 124 in the vicinity of the mouth 123. The groove 126 is adapted to receive a seal (not shown), such as an O-ring, to provide a sealing interface between the filter element 118 and the housing 62 and to direct substantially the entire fluid flow through the filter element 118. In certain embodiments, the filter element 118 is constructed as a one-piece component.

As illustrated, the filter element 118 includes a basket 120, the basket 120 being defined between a base 122 and a mouth 123 to form a sleeve 124 extending between the base 122 and the mouth 123. Filter element 118 includes a porous feature 142 located within basket 120 and more specifically within base 122 and sleeve 124 of basket 120. The porous features 142 may be provided in any suitable number, size, shape, and/or arrangement. For example, fig. 8-10 illustrate porous features 142 that are generally rectangular in shape and arranged in a rectangular array on the sleeve 124 and a radial array on the base 122. The porous features 142 are generally sized to trap matter within the entrained fluid as the fluid is drawn through the filter element 118. With the filter element 118 placed within the housing 62 and the suction line 50 coupled to the fitting 112, a fluid communication path is established from the bore of the fitting 112, through the manifold volume 65 and through the filter element 118 to the outlet opening 68. When fluid is drawn through the fluid communication path, the porous features 142 trap material entrained within the fluid. In the event of prolonged use or repeated use over time, the porous features 142 of the filter element 118 may partially or completely occlude with semi-solid and solid matter entrained within the fluid, possibly resulting in a decrease in suction through the manifold and/or at the surgical site of the housing. Due to the disposability of the manifold 60, one option includes removing and replacing the manifold 60, as previously described. However, other advantageous features of the manifold 60 of the present disclosure provide for a reduced likelihood that the manifold 60 will plug in within a given period of time, thereby extending the useful life of the manifold 60.

Referring now to fig. 2, 5 and 11, the manifold 60 includes a material collection volume 106. In the most general sense, the matter collection volume 106 is a volume that is appropriately sized and positioned within the housing 62 such that the matter 150 (e.g., fragments of semi-solid and/or solid matter represented by dashed circles) is deposited and collected within the volume 106. The manifold 60 of the present disclosure is configured to contain more substance within the fluid path before replacement is required. The manifold 60 may be considered a large volume manifold. This can be accomplished in at least two ways. First, once the porous features 142 of the filter element 118 begin to become clogged with material entrained within the fluid, material initially accumulates near the base 122 of the filter element 118 based on the presence of the suction force, and then continues to accumulate along the length of the filter element 118. Due to gravity, the material may initially accumulate along the bottom of the length of the filter element 118. Likewise, additional material 150 is collected within the material collection volume 106 near the bottom of the filter element 118, as opposed to, for example, accumulating further within the filter element 118. Second, based on the location and size of the matter collection volume 106 to be described, the density of the matter 150 relative to the fluid may cause at least some of the matter 150 to descend toward the matter collection volume 106 and collect within the matter collection volume 106 before encountering the mouth 123 of the filter element 118. With the substance 150 collected and deposited within the substance collection volume 106, less solid or semi-solid substance enters the filter element 118 to potentially occlude the porous feature 142.

With specific reference to fig. 5, the material collection volume 106 will now be described in detail. The distal portion 88 of the manifold 60 may include a longitudinal axis LA extending proximally from a distal end (e.g., the face plate 110) of the distal portion 88. In embodiments where the manifold 60 is generally cylindrical, the longitudinal axis LA may be at a radial center of the manifold 60. In other embodiments where the axial cross-section of the manifold 60 is not substantially circular, the longitudinal axis LA may be at the geometric center of the cross-section. It will be appreciated that the longitudinal axis LA may be approximately in the middle of the manifold 60, and its precise location may be defined with some variance. When coupling the manifold 60 to the medical-surgical waste system 20, the longitudinal axis LA may be substantially horizontal and extend proximally (P) to distally (D) so as to define a top direction (T) and a bottom direction (B) in the convention shown in fig. 5.

The material collection volume 106 is positioned below the bottom of the basket 120 of the filter element 118 with respect to horizontal (i.e., in the bottom direction). In other words, the material collection volume 106 is positioned opposite the basket 120 of the filter element 118 relative to the longitudinal axis LA. With the material collection volume 106 located below the bottom of basket 120, material 150 collected with material collection volume 106 is effectively removed from the fluid communication path. The suction force may be insufficient to draw solid and semi-solid waste into the fluid communication path from within the material collection volume 106 positioned below the basket 120. The manifold volume 65 may be considered to be a volume within the housing 62 other than the material collection volume 106, or alternatively, the material collection volume 106 may be considered to be a sub-volume of the manifold volume 65 defined by the housing 62.

The material collection volume 106 is defined by a protrusion 107 extending downwardly (i.e., in a bottom direction) from a sidewall of the housing 62, and more specifically, by the neck 90 of the distal portion 88. The protrusion 107 may be considered to extend downwardly from the sidewall relative to a portion of the sidewall proximate the protrusion 107. The protrusion 107 extends downward with respect to the horizontal. As noted, at least a portion of the protrusion 107 may be defined by a transition panel 99, the transition panel 99 separating the lower portion 102 from the neck 90 of the distal portion 88 (see fig. 4). In the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 5, the protrusion 107 includes a first surface 109 and a second surface 111, wherein the first surface 109 extends downwardly from a sidewall of the housing 62. Second surface 111 extends distally from first surface 109 to a distal end defining housing 62A panel 110. In such embodiments, the matter collection volume 106 may be at least partially defined by the first and

second surfaces

109, 111 and a portion of the panel 110. FIG. 5 shows basket 120 having a bottom defined at axis R _MT (radial axis of the mouth 123) at a first distance d from the longitudinal axis LA ₁ . The protrusion 107, and more particularly a lowermost portion (e.g., the second surface 111) of the protrusion 107, is a second distance d from the longitudinal axis LA ₂ . The second distance is greater than the first distance, wherein the difference defines a depth of the material collection volume 106. In another convention, the depth of the material collection volume 106 is defined as a first distance from the longitudinal axis LA to the sidewall of the housing 62 and a second distance d from the longitudinal axis LA to the lowermost portion of the projection 107 ₂ (i.e., the depth of the protrusion 107). The depth of the substance collection volume 106 can be configured to provide sufficient capacity for the substance 150, for example, at least 5 millimeters (mm), at least 10mm, at least 20mm, at least 50mm, or at least 100 millimeters or more. Alternatively, the depth of the material collection volume 106 may be from 5mm to 100mm, 10mm to 75mm, or 20mm to 50 mm. However, it is understood that the depth of the material collection volume 106 may be designed based on the size constraints of the housing 62 and/or the needs of the surgical application. The volume of the material collection volume 106 can be at least 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 cubic centimeters (cm) ³ ). Alternatively, the volume of the material collection volume 106 may be from 1 to 10cm ³ 3 to 8cm ³ Or 4 to 6cm ³ . In certain embodiments, the volume ratio of the material collection volume 106 to the manifold volume 65 is from 1:3 to 1:8, 1:3 to 1:6, or 1:4 to 1: 5. Alternatively, the manifold volume 65 may be at least 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 times the volume of the substance collection volume 106.

The matter collection volume 106 is positioned at least partially distal of the filter element 118. More specifically, the matter collection volume 106 is positioned at least partially distal to the mouth 123 of the filter element 118, and even more specifically, axially between the proximal end of the bore of the fitting 112 and the mouth 123 of the filter element 118. With the material collection volume 106 distal to the mouth 123, the material 150 before encountering the mouth 123 of the filter element 118Descends and is collected by the material collection volume 106. FIG. 5 shows the mouth 123 defined at the axis A _M (axial position of the mouth 123) and the proximal end of the bore of the fitting 112 is defined at the axis A _B (axial position of the hole). If the hole terminates in the face plate 110, as shown in FIG. 5, axis A _B Corresponding to the panel 110. Length L of material collection volume 106 _SV Can be defined at the axis A _B And the axis A _M In the meantime. The length may be in the range of 25mm to 250mm, in the range of 50mm to 125mm, in the range of 25mm to 75mm, or in the range of 15mm to 50 mm. The length may be designed to allow the density of the substance 150 relative to the fluid to cause the substance 150 to descend out of the fluid communication path for collection within the substance collection volume 106. It is appreciated that the length may be based on, for example, an expected aspiration level for a surgical application, as a higher aspiration level will draw the semi-solid and solid matter with greater force and require more distance for the semi-solid and solid matter to descend from the fluid path under the influence of gravity. When viewed in the cross-sectional elevation view of fig. 5, the matter collection volume 106 may be trapezoidal, but it is contemplated that the protrusions 107 may define the matter collection volume 106 as rectangular, semi-circular, triangular, other polygonal shapes, and/or any shape that defines a continuous surface.

It should be readily appreciated that where large quantities of semi-solid and solid matter are collected within the matter collection volume 106, the manifold 60 of the present disclosure is configured to hold more matter before replacement is required. Even with this robust feature, eventually the material collection volume 106 will be consumed with the material 150 and the porous features 142 of the filter element 118 will eventually be occluded. As the manifold volume 65 begins to accumulate more and more material, another advantageous feature of the manifold 60 of the present disclosure includes a breather tube 138, the breather tube 138 being designed to define a breather tube void space 129 (see fig. 10) that is inaccessible to the material 150 and provide a second fluid communication path to be described.

Referring to fig. 5 and 8-10, the vent tube 138 is shown as a component or portion of the filter element 118. However, it should be understood that the vent tube138 may be a separate component. The vent tube 138 extends distally from the basket 120 and, more specifically, outwardly from the mouth 123 of the filter element 118. In other words, the mouth 123 of the filter element 118 may define a filter mouth plane (see, e.g., axis A of FIG. 5) _M Upper plane) from which the vent tube 138 extends distally. Fig. 8 shows basket 120 extending proximally from the plane of the filter mouth. The vent tube 138 is positioned within the housing 62, and more specifically within the distal portion 88 of the housing 62. The breather tube 138 coupled to the basket 120 is positioned axially at least partially between the proximal end of the bore of the fitting 112 and the mouth 123 of the filter element 118. Further, FIG. 5 shows the vent tube 138 oriented and positioned at the axis R _S (radial axis of the vent tube 138). Axis R of the vent tube 138 _S Opposite the material collection volume 106 relative to the longitudinal axis LA. In other words, the material collection volume 106 is generally positioned near the bottom of the manifold 60, while the vent tube 138 is generally positioned near the top of the manifold 60. In certain embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in fig. 5, the vent tube 138 is positioned above the material collection volume 106. Further indicated in FIG. 5, the top of basket 120 is defined at axis R _MT (radial axis of the mouth 123), wherein the axis R of the vent pipe 138 _S Axis R at the top of basket 120 _MT Above (b). For reasons to be described, the breather tube 138 is advantageously positioned near the furthest and uppermost portion of the manifold 60 away from the outlet opening 68. It should be understood that the vent tube 138 may be included in the manifold 60 and not the matter collection volume 106.

In some embodiments, the vent tube 138 is a generally tubular structure. For example, the vent tube 138 includes a tubular wall 141 and a distal face 140 at a distal end of the tubular wall 141. Vent tube 138 includes porous features 142 disposed on one or both of tubular wall 141 and distal face 140, which porous features 142 may be the same as or similar to porous features 142 associated with basket 120. The vent tube 138 may not include a proximal face opposite the distal face 140 such that the vent tube 138 is generally recessed relative to the mouth 123 of the filter element 118. It is noted that the basket 120 of the filter element 118 may be considered to be generally convex relative to the mouth 123 of the filter element 118. Rather than being proximally located, the vent tube 138 opens into the passage defined by the groove 125 of the sleeve 124, as best shown in fig. 9. The groove 125 may be generally U-shaped or semi-circular and subtend an arc corresponding to a portion of the tubular wall 141 (i.e., the groove 125 is flush with the adjacent curved portion of the vent tube 138).

With particular reference to fig. 10, basket 120 may define a basket void space 127 within sleeve 124 between base 122 and mouth 123. Mouth 123 is open such that basket void space 127 is toward the proximally directed inner surface of faceplate 110. The vent tube 138 may define a vent tube void space 129 between the distal face 140 and the proximal end of the wall 141 inside the tubular wall 141. It is understood that vent tube void space 129 is separate from basket void space 127. In particular, the tubular wall 141 of the breather tube 138 and the groove 125 may separate the breather tube void space 129 from the basket void space 127. The structure of the filter element 118, including the basket 120 and the breather tube 138, establishes the first fluid communication path (F) previously described (see also fig. 5) and the second fluid communication path (S) from the bore of the fitting 112 to the outlet opening through the breather tube void space 129 of the breather tube 138. More specifically, the second fluid communication path includes fluid passing from the bore of fitting 112, through the porous feature 142 of breather tube 138, through breather tube void space 129, through the passage defined by groove 125, and descending at base 122 of basket 120 to outlet opening 68. This aspiration is then maintained through the second fluid-communication path to draw fluid through the second fluid-communication path after substantially all of the porous features 142 of basket 120 are occluded by the trapped substance 150 and substance 150 substantially occupies basket void space 127. The substance entrained within the fluid path is prevented from entering the vent tube void space 129 by the porous feature 142 on the vent tube 138. Further, with the axial and radial position of the vent tube 138 located near the furthest portion of the manifold volume 65 relative to the outlet opening 68, the manifold 60 should continue to operate until substantially all of the volume within the housing 62 is consumed by the semi-solid and solid matter. Only then is it more likely that the material will plug the porous feature 142 of the snorkel 138 at the distal and uppermost portions of the manifold 60. As a result, substantially all of the volume within the manifold 60 is utilized, thereby extending the useful life of the manifold 60.

Exemplary operations include preparing the waste collection unit 20 for use by inserting the manifold 60 within the manifold receiver 40. Manifold 60 is rotated so as to seat

bosses

95, 97 within channels integral with

slots

43, 45 to lock manifold 60 in manifold receiver 40. Due to the orientation of the manifold 60 when coupled with the manifold receiver 40, the material collection volume 106 is positioned below the filter element 118 with respect to the gravitational reference plane. The at least one suction line 50 is coupled to at least one fitting 112. The suction applicator 48 may be coupled to the suction line 50.

The pump 58 is actuated to draw waste away from the surgical site. Actuation of the pump draws the waste stream through the suction applicator 48 and the suction line 50 into the manifold 60, as shown by arrow 146 in fig. 11. Based on the position of the matter collection volume 106, the fluid flow with the matter 150 does not immediately encounter the filter element 118. Instead, the fluid stream with the substance 150 travels through the first communication path, as shown by arrow 148 in fig. 11 (see also (F) in fig. 5). At least some of the matter 150 may descend toward the matter collection volume 106 and collect within the matter collection volume 106 before encountering the mouth 123 of the filter element 118. Fluid is drawn into one of the

tanks

28, 30 that is in fluid communication with the manifold volume 65. In addition, after at least some of the porous features 142 of the filter element 118 are plugged by matter 150 entrained within the fluid, the matter 150 collects within the matter collection volume 106 located near the bottom of the manifold 60, as opposed to further accumulating within the filter element 118.

Second embodiment

Fig. 12, 13, and 17 illustrate a manifold 168 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Similarly numbered structures from the previously described embodiments of manifold 60 are incorporated herein by reference for the current embodiment of manifold 168 to be described. The manifold 168 includes a proximal portion 64 and a distal portion 202. The distal portion 202 may be removably coupled to the proximal portion 64, for example, using a snap fit, detents, or the like. The proximal portion 64 and the distal portion 202 collectively define the housing 62 of the manifold 168. The distal portion 202 is similar in many respects to the distal portion 88, except for its comparable shape and size. In particular, the neck 204 of the distal portion 202 is axially longer than the neck 90 of the distal portion 88 of FIG. 4. The neck 204 of the distal portion 202 of this embodiment is cylindrical along its entire length. Further, the distal portion 202 includes a collar 205 that annularly expands radially outward from the neck 204. In at least some aspects, the collar 205 is similar to the transition panel 99 previously described, wherein the collar 205 at least partially defines the protrusion 207. Distal portion 202 of housing 62 includes a head 208 distal of collar 205, the head 208 having a diameter greater than a diameter of neck 204. Manifold 168 includes a faceplate 210 defining a distal end of manifold 168. The fitting 112 and rail portion 114 extend forward from the panel 210. The fitting 112 defines an aperture in communication with the manifold volume 65 within the manifold 168. In certain embodiments, the manifold 168 includes a blister 203 that projects radially outward from the other cylindrical surface of the neck 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the blisters 203 are diametrically opposed. Blister 203 is adapted to provide a friction fit between manifold 168 and collar 41 of manifold receiver 40. In one example, neck 204 of manifold 168 is sized to have a diameter that is about 0.5mm smaller than the diameter of collar 41, and blister 203 protrudes radially outward a distance of about 0.05mm greater than the diameter of manifold receiver 40. The blister 203 may be formed from a resilient material adapted to compress and resiliently deform when the manifold 168 is positioned within the manifold receiver 40. The compression and associated elastic deformation help prevent rotation of the manifold 168 relative to the medical/surgical waste collection system 20.

Referring now to fig. 14-16, the filter element 170 includes a basket 174. Basket 174 is substantially cylindrical. The basket 174 extends between a base 172 and a mouth 123 opposite the base 172, the base 172 defining a proximal end of the filter element 170 and the mouth 123 defining a distal end of the filter element 170. Basket 174 is sized and shaped to be positioned within housing 62. Neck 182 is located distal to basket 174, wherein the inner diameter of neck 182 is approximately 3 millimeters greater than the inner diameter of basket 174. The filter element 170 includes a head 184 extending distally from the neck 182. The head 184 is annularly shaped as a truncated cone. In other words, head 184 flares or tapers radially outward from neck 182. An annular rim 188 (also part of the head 184) extends radially outward from the outer periphery of the head 184. The rim 188 is planar and defines the mouth 123 of the filter element 170. The outer diameter of the rim 188 is about 1 millimeter less than the diameter of the inner wall of the head 208 of the distal portion 202. However, it should be understood that filter basket 174 may have other shapes.

The filter element 170 includes ribs 176, protuberances 178, and ears 190 that are configured to maintain the position of the filter element 170 relative to the housing 62. More specifically, ribs 176 may extend radially outward from the outer surface of basket 174. Ribs 176 may be oriented longitudinally along the outer surface of basket 174. Fig. 14 and 15 show four ribs 176 equally angularly spaced about the circumference defined by the outer surface of basket 174. Ribs 176 are sized such that basket 174 is closely received within proximal portion 64 of housing 62, and are further sized such that a gap of a desired size is provided between an outer surface of basket 174 and an inner surface of proximal portion 64. The gap provides clearance for fluid passing through a porous feature 194 (described further below) of the filter element 170. The keel 178 facilitates centering the filter element 170 within the proximal portion 64 of the housing 62. As shown in fig. 14 and 15, a keel 178 projects outwardly from each rib 176, and more particularly at the distal end of each rib. The knob 178 is sized such that when the filter element 170 is seated within the housing 62, the knob 178 abuts the inner surface of the proximal portion 64. Ears 190 extend distally forward from the rim 188. In one example, each ear 190 is in the form of a curved tab. When the manifold 168 is assembled, the ears 190 are placed between ribs (not shown) that project inwardly from the inner surface of the head 208. The placement of ears 190 between the ribs facilitates alignment of filter element 170 in manifold 168 to prevent rotation of the filter.

The filter element 170 includes a porous feature 194. Porous feature 194 may be placed within base 172, basket 174, neck 182, and/or head 184. Fig. 14-16 illustrate the porous feature not associated with the edge 188. The porous features 194 are generally sized to trap matter entrained within the fluid as the fluid is drawn through the filter element 170. With the filter element 170 placed within the housing 62 and the suction line 50 coupled to the fitting 112, a fluid communication path is established from the bore of the fitting 112, through the manifold volume 65 and through the filter element 170 to the outlet opening 68. As fluid is drawn through the fluid communication path, the porous features 194 trap the substance 150 entrained within the fluid. In the event of prolonged use or repeated use over time, the porous features 194 of the filter element 118 may become partially or completely clogged with semi-solid and solid matter entrained within the fluid, possibly resulting in a decrease in suction force through the manifold 168 and/or at the surgical site. The present embodiment of manifold 168 includes a material collection volume 206 that is similar in many respects to material collection volume 106 of the exemplary embodiment previously described (see fig. 5). In the most general sense, the material collection volume 206 is a volume that is appropriately sized and positioned within the housing 62 such that the material 150 is deposited and collected within the material collection volume 206.

Referring to fig. 13, the distal portion 202 of the manifold 168 includes a longitudinal axis LA extending proximally from a distal end of the distal portion 202 and oriented proximally (P) to distally (D) to define a top direction (T) and a bottom direction (B). The material collection volume 206 is positioned below the bottom of the basket 174 of the filter element 170 with respect to horizontal. In other words, the material collection volume 206 is positioned opposite the basket 174 of the filter element 170 relative to the longitudinal axis LA. With the material collection volume 206 located below the bottom of the basket 174, the material 150 descending into the material collection volume 206 and collected with the material collection volume 206 is effectively removed from the fluid communication path. The material collection volume 206 is defined by a protrusion 207 extending downwardly from a side wall of the housing 62. The protrusion 207 may be at least partially defined by the collar 205 and/or the proximal portion202 is defined by a head portion 208. In the present embodiment, the edge 188 of the filter element 170 can be considered to include a first surface 209 defining a portion of the matter collection volume 206, and a second surface 211 extending proximally from a panel 210 defining a distal end of the housing 62. In such an embodiment, the material collection volume 206 may be at least partially defined by the first surface 209 and the second surface 211 and a portion of the panel 210, as illustrated by the dashed rectangle in fig. 13. FIG. 13 also shows that the bottom of basket 174 is defined at axis R _M Upper and longitudinal axis LA by a first distance d ₁ And the projection 207, and more particularly a bottom (e.g., second surface 211) of the projection 207, is a second distance d from the longitudinal axis LA ₂ . The second distance is greater than the first distance, wherein the difference defines a depth of the material collection volume 206. In another convention, the depth of the material collection volume 206 is defined as a first distance from the longitudinal axis LA to the sidewall of the housing 62 and a second distance d from the longitudinal axis LA to the lowermost portion of the projection 207 ₂ (i.e., the depth of the protrusion 207). The depth of the substance collection volume 206 may be configured to provide sufficient capacity for the substance 150, for example, at least 5mm, at least 10mm, at least 20mm, at least 50mm, or at least 100 millimeters or more. Alternatively, the depth of the material collection volume 206 may be from 5mm to 100mm, 10mm to 75mm, or 20mm to 50 mm. However, it is understood that the depth of the material collection volume 206 may be designed based on the size constraints of the housing 62 and/or the needs of the surgical application. The volume of the material collection volume 206 may be at least 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10cm ³ . Alternatively, the volume of the material collection volume 206 may be from 1 to 10cm ³ 3 to 8cm ³ Or 4 to 6cm ³ . In certain embodiments, the volume ratio of the material collection volume 206 to the manifold volume 65 is 1:3 to 1:8, 1:3 to 1:6, or 1:4 to 1: 5. Alternatively, the manifold volume 65 may be at least 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 times the volume of the substance collection volume 206.

The matter collection volume 206 is positioned at least partially distal to the filter element 170. More specifically, the matter collection volume 206 is positioned distally of the mouth 123 of the filter element 170, and even more specifically, axially in the panel 210 and the mouth 123 of the filter element 170. The matter collection volume 206 may be positioned axially between the proximal end of the bore of the fitting 112 and the mouth 123 of the filter element 170. With the matter collection volume 206 distal to the mouth 123, the matter 150 descends and collects within the matter collection volume 206 before encountering the mouth 123 of the filter element 170. FIG. 13 shows that the mouth 123 is defined at the axis A _M And the bore of the fitting 112 is defined at the axis a _B . Length L of material collection volume 206 _SV Can be defined on the axis A _B To the axis A _M In the meantime. The length may be in the range of 25mm to 250mm, in the range of 50mm to 125mm, in the range of 25mm to 75mm, or in the range of 15mm to 50 mm.

Exemplary operations include preparing the waste collection unit 20 for use by inserting the manifold 168 within the manifold receiver 40. The

projections

95, 97 are aligned with the slots 43, 45 (see back fig. 3) and are inserted toward the proximal ends of the

slots

43, 45. The blister 203 abuts the inner surface of collar 41 such that when the manifold 168 is inserted and subsequently rotated in groove 47, the depression of the blister 203 on the collar 41 applies a resistance force opposing the axial and rotational movement of the manifold 168. When the

bosses

95, 97 are fully seated in the

slots

43, 45, the manifold 168 is rotated until the

bosses

95, 97 reach the ends of the grooves 47 located inside the collar 41 of the manifold receiver 40. These components are arranged relative to each other such that when the

lugs

95, 97 are rotated into the ends of the grooves 47, the blisters 203 rotate into the

slots

43, 45 and, as a result, the blisters 203 no longer abut the collar 41. Subsequent removal of the resistance from the blister 203 provides a tactile indication of the securement of the manifold 168 within the manifold receiver 40. Due to the orientation of the manifold 168 when coupled with the manifold receiver 40, the material collection volume 206 is positioned below the filter element 170 relative to the longitudinal axis and the gravitational plane. The at least one suction line 50 is coupled to at least one fitting 112. Suction applicator 48 may be coupled to the suction line 50.

The pump 58 is actuated to draw waste away from the surgical site. Actuation of pump 58 causes a waste stream to be drawn through suction applicator 48 and suction line 50 into manifold 168, as shown by arrow 222 in fig. 17. Based on the position of the matter collection volume 206, the fluid flow with the matter 150 does not immediately encounter the filter element 170. Before encountering the mouth 123 of the filter element 170, at least some of the matter 150 may descend toward the matter collection volume 206 and collect within the matter collection volume 206. Semi-solid and solid matter entrained within the fluid is trapped by the porous features 194 of the filter element 170 and the fluid is drawn into one of the

tanks

28, 30 in fluid communication with the manifold volume 65. In addition, after at least some of the porous features 194 of the filter element 170 are plugged with material 150 entrained within the fluid, the material 150 collects within a material collection volume 206 located near the bottom of the manifold 168, as opposed to, for example, further accumulating within the filter element 170. With the porous feature 194 advantageously disposed annularly about the head 184, neck 182, basket 174, and/or base 172 of the filter element 170, suction through the filter element 170 is maintained even when lower portions of the porous feature 194 are occluded. The manifold 168 should continue to operate until substantially all of the volume within the housing 62 is consumed by the semi-solid and solid materials. Only then is it more likely that the substance 150 will plug the porous features 194 of the uppermost portion of the filter element 170. As a result, substantially all of the volume within manifold 168 is utilized, thereby extending the useful life of manifold 168.

Third embodiment

Fig. 18-20 illustrate a manifold 242 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Similarly numbered structures from the previously described embodiments of the manifolds 60, 168 are incorporated herein by reference for the current embodiment of the manifold 242 to be described. The manifold 242 includes a proximal portion 64 and a distal portion 244. The proximal portion 64 and the distal portion 244 collectively define the housing 62 of the manifold 242. The distal portion 244 is similar in at least some respects to the previously described

distal portions

88, 202, for example, the distal portion 244 includes a neck 246, the neck 246 being generally cylindrical. The manifold 242 includes a face plate 258 defining a distal end of the manifold 242. The fitment 112 and rail portion 114 extend forward from the panel 258. The fitting 112 defines an aperture in communication with the manifold volume 65 within the manifold 242. A plurality of tethers 256 are shown extending from the panel 258, wherein two pairs of tethers are identified in fig. 18. A mating distal portion 257 is attached to the free end of each tether 256, wherein the distal portion 257 is configured to cover the hole of the fitting 112 through which no suction is being drawn to eliminate suction loss through that fitting. Although not shown, it is understood that the previously described manifolds 60 and 168 are generally provided with similar tethers and mating distal portions.

Manifold 242 includes a filter element 310 having a basket 314. Basket 314 may be substantially cylindrical. The basket 314 extends between a base 312 and a mouth 123 opposite the base 312, the base 312 defining a proximal end of the filter element 310 and the mouth 123 defining a distal end of the filter element 310. Basket 314 is sized and shaped to be positioned within housing 62, and more specifically within proximal portion 64 of housing 62. The filter element 310 includes features (not identified in fig. 19) that engage the proximal portion 64 to retain the filter element 310 to the proximal portion 64, including, but not limited to, those described with the previous embodiments. Filter element 310 also includes porous feature 315. Porous feature 315 may be placed within base 312 and/or basket 314. The porous features 315 are generally sized to trap matter entrained within the fluid as the fluid is drawn across the filter element 310. With the filter element 310 placed within the housing 62 and the suction line 50 coupled to the fitting 112, a fluid communication path is established from the bore of the fitting 112 through the manifold volume 65 and across the filter element 310 to the outlet opening 68. As fluid is drawn through the fluid communication path, the porous features 315 trap matter entrained within the fluid. In the event of prolonged use or repeated use over time, the porous features 315 of the filter element 310 may partially or completely occlude with semi-solid and solid matter entrained within the fluid, possibly resulting in a decrease in suction force across the manifold 242 and/or at the surgical site.

The present embodiment of the manifold 242 includes, in many respects, a material collection volume 306 similar to the material collection volumes 106, 206 (see fig. 5 and 13) of the previously described exemplary embodiments. Referring to fig. 19, the distal portion 244 of the manifold 242 includes a longitudinal axis LA extending proximally from the distal end of the distal portion 202 and oriented proximally (P) to distally (D) to define a top direction (T) and a bottom direction (B). The material collection volume 306 is positioned below the bottom of the basket 314 of the filter element 310 with respect to horizontal. In other words, the material collection volume 306 is positioned opposite the basket 314 of the filter element 310 relative to the longitudinal axis LA. With the material collection volume 306 located below the bottom of basket 314, material 150 that descends into material collection volume 306 and is collected with material collection volume 306 is effectively removed from the fluid communication path.

The material collection volume 306 is defined by a protrusion 307. With continued reference to FIG. 19, the bottom of basket 314 is defined at axis R _M Is a first distance d from the longitudinal axis LA ₁ And more specifically, the bottom of the projection 307 is a second distance d from the longitudinal axis LA ₂ . The second distance is greater than the first distance, wherein the difference defines a depth of the material collection volume 306. In another convention, the depth of the material collection volume 306 is defined as a first distance from the longitudinal axis LA to the sidewall of the housing 62 and a second distance d2 from the longitudinal axis LA to the bottom-most portion of the projection 307 (i.e., the depth of the projection 307). The depth of the substance collection volume 306 may be configured to provide sufficient capacity for the substance 150, for example, at least 5mm, at least 10mm, at least 20mm, at least 50mm, or at least 100 millimeters or more. Alternatively, the depth of the material collection volume 306 may be from 5mm to 100mm, 10mm to 75mm, or 20mm to 50 mm. However, it is understood that the depth of the material collection volume 306 may be designed based on the size constraints of the housing 62 and/or the needs of the surgical application. The volume of the material collection volume 306 may be at least 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10cm ³ . Alternatively, the volume of the material collection volume 306 may be from 1cm ³ To 10cm ³ 、3cm ³ To 8cm ³ Or 4cm ³ To 6cm ³ . In certain embodiments, the volume ratio of the material collection volume 306 to the manifold volume 65 is from 1:3 to 1:8, 1:3 to 1:6, or 1:4 to 1: 5. Alternatively, the manifold volume 65 may be a mass collectorAt least 2 times, 3 times, 4 times, 5 times, or 6 times the volume of the collection volume 306.

The matter collection volume 306 is positioned at least partially distal to the filter element 310. More specifically, the matter collection volume 306 is positioned at least partially distal to the mouth 123 of the filter element 170, and even more specifically, axially between the proximal end of the bore of the fitting 112 and the mouth 123 of the filter element 170. With the matter collection volume 306 distal to the mouth 123, the matter 150 descends and collects within the matter collection volume 306 before encountering the mouth 123 of the filter element 310. FIG. 5 shows that the mouth 123 is defined at the axis A _M And the bore of the fitting 112 is defined at the axis a _B To (3). Length L of material collection volume 307 _SV Can be defined at the axis A _B And the axis A _M In the meantime. The length may be in the range of 1.0 inch to 10.0 inches, or more specifically in the range of 2.0 inches to 5.0 inches.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 18 and 19, the manifold 242 includes a tissue trap 248, the tissue trap 248 including a protrusion 307 and at least partially defining a material collection volume 306. The tissue trap 248 projects laterally outward from the side wall of the housing 62 and more particularly from the proximal portion 64 of the housing 62. In certain embodiments, the tissue trap 248 comprises a portion of the housing 62, and in other embodiments, the tissue trap 248 is removably coupled to the housing 62. For example, each of the tissue trap 248 and the housing 62 can include complementary coupling features 251 adapted to removably couple the tissue trap 248 to the proximal portion 64 of the housing 62. The complementary coupling features 251 may include threads, detents, friction fits, etc. In such an example, decoupling the tissue trap 248 from the housing 62 can provide for retrieval of the substance collected within the tissue trap 248. It is contemplated that the tissue trap 248 of the manifold 242 of the present embodiment may be included on the previously described embodiments of the manifolds 60, 168. The tissue trap 248 may include an upper portion 250 and a lower portion 252. The upper portion 250 may be in the form of a rectangular tube. The lower portion 252 of the tissue trap 248 may be generally conical, as shown in fig. 18 or 19, generally pyramidal or other suitable shape to provide a desired volume and profile for the material collection volume 306. Tissue trap 248 may be formed of a partially or completely transparent substance and further includes graduations 254, which graduations 254 indicate the volume of the trap relative to the bottom of lower portion 252. The scale 254 helps identify the volume of material and fluid that is collected within the tissue trap 248. While the tissue trap 248 imparts a different profile to the manifold 242 than the previously described embodiments and defines a relatively large material collection volume 306, in many respects, the function is similar in these three embodiments. The material collection volume 306 is positioned within the housing 62 such that the material 150 is deposited and collected within the material collection volume 306. With the matter 150 collected and deposited within the matter collection volume 306, less matter enters the filter element 310 to potentially occlude the porous feature 315. Thus, the manifold 242 is configured to contain more fluid and more substance within the fluid path before replacement is required. It is understood that the tissue trap 248 may be disposed within other exemplary embodiments of the manifolds 60, 168 of the present disclosure, or embodiments of the manifolds that do not include a material collection volume.

Where the tissue trap 248 provides a larger volume for the substance collection volume 306, it may be desirable to direct the fluid flow toward the tissue trap 248 before encountering the mouth 123 of the filter element 310. The manifold 242 may further include a flow diverter 280 positioned with the housing 62. The flow diverter 280 is positioned axially between the bore of the fitting 112 and the mouth 123 of the filter element 310 so as to be positioned within the fluid communication path. The flow diverter 280 is configured to direct at least a portion of the fluid and substance 150 being drawn through the fluid communication path towards the substance collection volume 306. Referring to fig. 19-23, the panel 258 is further formed with two openings 260, one of which is identified in fig. 19. H-beams 262 project outwardly from the panel 258 with a central web of the beams 262 positioned between the openings 260 and opposing parallel wings of the beams 262 positioned adjacent to the sides of the openings 260. One or more bosses 264 may also project outwardly from the panel 258, with each boss 264 positioned adjacent to one of the openings 260. The projection 264 is positioned between the free ends of the wings of the beam 262 surrounding the opening 260.

The flow redirector 280 includes a center panel 282. In the example shown, the center panel 282 is planar and rectangular. The central panel 282 is oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis LA. A circular head 288 is secured to the distal end of the central panel 282. The head 288 is positioned in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the central panel 282. The flow redirector 280 includes ears 290 extending distally forward from the top of the head 288. Ears 290 may be generally in the form of parallel posts, each having a rectangular cross-sectional profile. Each ear 290 is further shaped to have a tip 292 that projects a short distance outward. When the manifold 242 is assembled, each ear 290 is inserted through a separate one of the openings 260 in the panel 258 of the distal portion 244. Each end 292 of ears 290 projects onto a separate one of lobes 264 of distal portion 244. The engagement of the ears on the bosses secures the flow redirector 280, with the manifold volume 65 located inside the distal portion 244 of the housing 62. Due to the size of the components forming the manifold 242, when the flow redirector 280 is so secured in place, the distal guide surface of the head 288 is pressed against the adjacent proximal guide surface of the faceplate 258. It is understood that the flow redirector 280 may be of unitary construction and formed of a relatively inexpensive material such as plastic.

The flow redirector 280 further comprises a baffle 298. A baffle 298 extends outwardly from the central panel 288. The baffle 298 may be circular in shape with a diameter greater than the bottom-to-top height of the central panel 282. The baffles 298 are oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis LA. As shown in fig. 19, the top of the baffle 298 (i.e., in the top direction (T)) is positioned distally relative to the bottom of the baffle 298 (i.e., in the bottom direction (B)). In other words, the baffle 298 is angled relative to the longitudinal axis LA such that as the baffle 298 extends downward toward the tissue trap 248, the bottom of the baffle 298 slopes proximally toward the proximal portion 64. Due to the size, shape, and orientation of the baffle 298, the flow diverter 280 is configured to direct at least a portion, and typically a majority, of the fluid and substance being drawn through the fluid communication path toward the substance collection volume 306. In other words, the majority of the waste stream contacts the distal leading surface of the baffle 298, which diverts the waste stream into the tissue trap 248. In some cases it may be considered that the fluid communication path includes a substance collection volume 306, as indicated by arrow 324 in fig. 19. However, it is understood that the flow redirector 280 may be disposed within the previously described exemplary embodiments of the manifolds 60, 168 or within embodiments of the manifolds that do not include a material collection volume.

Where a substantial amount of waste stream contacts the distal face of the baffle 298, the flow redirector 280 may include a retaining member 302 coupled to the distal face. The retaining member is adapted to retain debris, such as sutures, tissue fragments and other relatively long fragments, within the fluid communication path. In the embodiment shown in fig. 21, the retaining member 302 is a pin.

Exemplary operations include the waste collection unit 20 being prepared for use by inserting the manifold 242 within the manifold receiver 40. The

projections

95, 97 are positioned to engage the groove 47 (see fig. 3) located inside the collar 41 of the manifold receiver 40, and rotation of the manifold 242 releasably locks the manifold 242 to the manifold receiver 40. Due to the positioning of the components forming the system, when the manifold 242 is in this locked state, the manifold 242 is in a rotational orientation about the longitudinal axis LA such that the trap 248 is located below the longitudinal axis LA. More specifically, the manifold 242 is oriented such that the bottom of the tissue trap 248 is lowermost relative to the gravitational plane and the material collection volume 306 is positioned below the filter element 310. At least one suction line 50 is coupled to at least one of the fittings 112. Suction applicator 48 may be coupled to the suction line 50.

The pump 58 is actuated to draw waste away from the surgical site. Actuation of the pump causes a waste stream to be drawn through the suction applicator 48 and the suction line 50 into the manifold 242, as shown by arrow 322 in fig. 19. Based on the position of matter collection volume 306, at least some matter 150 descends toward matter collection volume 306 and collects within matter collection volume 306 before encountering mouth 123 of filter element 310. Fluid is drawn into one of the

tanks

28, 30 that is in fluid communication with the manifold volume 65. In addition, the fluid and material being drawn through the fluid communication path toward the material collection volume 306 contacts the distal face of the baffle 298, which baffle 298 diverts the waste stream into the tissue trap 248. After at least some of the porous features 315 of the filter element 310 are plugged with material 150 entrained within the fluid, the material 150 may collect within a material collection volume 306 located near the bottom of the manifold 242.

It is further contemplated that the waste collection system 20 may be operated in one of a low suction mode and a high suction mode. In the low suction mode, in which relatively low suction is drawn through the suction line 50, substantially all of the waste stream (i.e., fluid and material) enters the tissue trap 248, which is represented in fig. 19 by the wavy line 326. However, the suction level is not sufficient to draw material out of the tissue trap 248. The scale 254 on the at least partially transparent tissue trap 248 may be used to measure the volume of waste removed from the surgical site. This feature is particularly useful in some procedures (e.g., pediatric and ophthalmic procedures) where only a small amount of material (e.g., 10 cubic centimeters or less of material) is removed. In the low suction mode, the tissue trap 248 may eventually fill with a waste stream. While scale 254 may no longer be useful for measuring the volume of waste stream, the density of substance 150 relative to the fluid causes the substance to descend toward the bottom of substance collection volume 306 defined by tissue trap 248 and collect within substance collection volume 306. Subsequently, with a higher level of suction applied through the manifold 242, fluid is drawn from within the tissue trap 248 while the material remains deposited within the material collection volume 306. With less material encountering the filter element 310, the likelihood of clogging of the filter element 310 is reduced and the useful life of the manifold 242 is extended.

In a high suction mode, in which relatively high suction is drawn through the suction line 50, substantially all of the waste stream (i.e., fluids and materials) may contact and be diverted by the distal face of the baffle 298. The suction level is sufficient to draw fluid around the baffle 298 into the mouth 123 of the filter element 310 while the substance 150 descends toward the bottom of the substance collection volume 306 defined by the tissue trap 248 and collects within the substance collection volume 306. With the fluid path entering the mouth 123 of the filter element 310, any entrained semi-solid and solid matter is captured by the porous feature 315 of the filter element 310 and fluid is drawn into one of the

tanks

28, 30 in fluid communication with the manifold volume 65. After at least some of the porous features 315 of the filter element 310 are plugged with matter 150 entrained within the fluid, the matter 150 may collect within a matter collection volume 306 located near the bottom of the manifold 242.

Alternative embodiments

The foregoing relates to specific embodiments of the present disclosure to which the present application relates. Alternative embodiments are possible. For example, the mobile units used as part of the system of the present disclosure are exemplary and not limiting. Not all waste collection units integrated into the system may be mobile or comprise two waste collection unit tanks. Likewise, other variations of the system of the present disclosure may include alternative features for ensuring that the manifold is in the proper orientation relative to the plane of gravity when assembled to the waste collection unit. For example, it is within the scope of the present disclosure that the waste collection unit may include one or more alignment tabs, wherein the manifold housing is formed with a complementary number of slots. The slot may be positioned such that the manifold must be oriented such that the boss is seated in the slot to provide the correct orientation. In still other aspects of the present disclosure, it may be desirable to provide the manifold receiver with an asymmetric bore and to provide the manifold housing with a complementary asymmetric shape. This will again ensure that the manifold has the correct orientation due to its seating in the bore.

Not all features may be present in all variations of the disclosure. For example, some manifolds of the present disclosure may have only a single fitting for receiving a suction line. Also, it may not always be necessary to fit a drip stop in the outlet opening of the manifold housing. In variations of the present disclosure where a tissue trap is present to provide a means for determining the volume of waste removed, it may not be necessary to provide a filter for the manifold. Not all manifold variations include blisters. In addition to the second embodiment, blisters may be incorporated in the manifold. With this aspect of the disclosure, it is possible to provide a manifold with a single blister or three or more blisters to provide the desired tactile feedback. Filters having a breather tube portion may be incorporated into the manifolds of the second and third embodiments as well as manifolds that do not include a settling chamber. Various features of the manifold of the present disclosure may likewise be incorporated. It is within the scope of the present disclosure that the tissue trap and the flow redirector may be included separately or together in the first and second embodiments of the manifold. Likewise, the tissue trap and flow diverter can be combined with any of the disclosed filter elements, either individually or together.

The structure of the flow diverter used to direct the waste stream into the tissue trap may be different than that already described. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the flow redirector may be a set of one or more panels molded into the manifold housing. These panels include surfaces positioned to direct the waste stream into the tissue trap before the waste stream flows through the filter element and the outlet opening. Also, as an alternative to pins, the retention features on the flow redirector may be non-linear surfaces with indentations. The indentations may serve as pockets into which waste that would otherwise be trapped by the filter is trapped.

Several embodiments have been discussed in the foregoing description. However, the embodiments discussed herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to any precise form. The terminology which has been used is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching, and the disclosure may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.

Claims

1. A manifold for a medical waste collection system, the manifold comprising:

a housing comprising a proximal portion having at least one sidewall defining a manifold volume and a distal portion comprising a panel defining a distal end and comprising a longitudinal axis extending proximally from the distal end of the distal portion;

an outlet opening defined within a proximal portion of the housing and in fluid communication with the manifold volume;

a filter element located within the housing and comprising a base forming a proximal end of the filter element, a mouth disposed opposite the base and forming a distal end of the filter element, a basket extending between the base and the mouth, and a porous feature located within the basket;

at least one fitting defining an aperture in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the fitting adapted to receive a suction line for drawing fluid into the manifold volume, wherein a fluid communication path is established from the aperture of the fitting through the manifold volume and across the filter element to the outlet opening such that the porous feature is adapted to trap matter entrained within the fluid as the fluid is drawn through the fluid communication path; and

a protrusion extending downwardly from the at least one sidewall to at least partially define a material collection volume within the housing, the material collection volume being positioned at least partially axially between the aperture of the fitment and the mouth of the filter element and further positioned below a bottom of the basket of the filter element relative to horizontal such that when the fluid and the material are drawn through the fluid communication path, the material collects within the material collection volume.

2. The manifold of claim 1, wherein the protrusion further comprises a first surface extending downwardly from the at least one sidewall and a second surface extending distally from the first surface to the distal end of the housing, the first surface and the second surface defining at least a portion of the matter collection volume.

3. The manifold of claim 1 or 2, wherein the manifold further comprises a tissue trap comprising the protrusion, the tissue trap and the housing comprising complementary coupling features to removably couple the tissue trap with the housing to allow retrieval of the substance collected within the substance collection container.

4. A manifold as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the manifold further comprises a flow diverter located within the housing and positioned axially between the bore of the fitting and the mouth of the filter element so as to be positioned within the fluid communication path, the flow diverter being adapted to direct the fluid and at least a portion of the substance being drawn through the fluid communication path towards the substance collection volume.

5. The manifold of claim 4, wherein the flow redirector is a baffle coupled to the housing.

6. The manifold of claim 4, further comprising a retaining member coupled to a distal face of the flow diverter, the retaining member adapted to retain debris within the fluid communication path.

7. The manifold of claim 6, wherein the retaining member is a pin.

8. The manifold of claim 1 or 2, wherein the filter element further comprises a breather tube comprising a porous feature, the breather tube being coupled to the basket and positioned at least partially axially between the bore of the fitting and the mouth of the filter element, and further positioned above the longitudinal axis opposite the matter collection volume, each of the basket and the breather tube comprising the porous feature.

9. The manifold of claim 8, wherein the vent tube comprises a tubular wall and a distal face coupled to one end of the tubular wall.

10. The manifold of claim 9, wherein the porous feature of the vent tube extends through the distal face and the tubular wall.

11. The manifold of claim 8, wherein the basket defines a basket void space and the breather tube defines a breather tube void space, the basket void space and the breather tube void space being in fluid communication with the outlet opening and separated from one another, wherein a second fluid communication path is established from the bore through the breather tube void space to the outlet opening.

12. The manifold of claim 1 or 2, wherein the manifold further comprises a blister coupled to and extending radially outward from an exterior of the housing, the blister adapted to compress and prevent rotation of the manifold relative to the medical waste collection system in response to the manifold being operably coupled with the medical waste collection system.

13. The manifold of claim 12, wherein the basket is cylindrical and further comprising an annular head extending from the cylindrical basket, the annular head comprising the porous feature.

14. The manifold of claim 13, wherein the annular head is frustoconical in shape.

15. A manifold for a medical waste collection system, the manifold comprising:

a housing comprising at least one sidewall defining a manifold volume;

an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume;

at least one fitting defining an aperture in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the fitting adapted to receive a suction line for drawing fluid into the manifold volume, wherein a fluid communication path is established from the aperture of the fitting through the manifold volume and across the filter element to the outlet opening such that the porous feature of the filter element is adapted to trap matter entrained within the fluid as the fluid is drawn through the fluid communication path; and

a tissue trap removably coupled to a distal portion of the housing and positioned at least partially axially between the aperture of the at least one fitting and the mouth of the filter element, the tissue trap defining a substance collection volume below the filter element such that when the fluid and substance are drawn through the fluid communication path, the substance is collected within the tissue trap.

16. The manifold of claim 15, wherein the tissue trap and the housing further comprise complementary coupling features to removably couple the tissue trap with an exterior of the housing to allow retrieval of the substance collected within the tissue trap.

17. A manifold according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the tissue trap is substantially conical or pyramidal.

18. The manifold of claim 15 or 16, wherein the tissue trap is at least partially transparent and further comprises a scale for identifying the volume of the substance collected within the tissue trap.

19. The manifold of claim 15 or 16, wherein the filter element further comprises a breather tube coupled to the basket and positioned at least partially axially between the aperture of the fitting and the mouth of the filter element, and further positioned above a longitudinal axis of the housing opposite the matter collection volume, each of the basket and the breather tube comprising the porous feature.

20. The manifold of claim 19, wherein the vent tube comprises a tubular wall and a distal face coupled to one end of the tubular wall.

21. The manifold of claim 20, wherein the porous feature of the breather tube extends through the distal face and the tubular wall.

22. The manifold of claim 20, wherein the basket defines a basket void space and the breather tube defines a breather tube void space in fluid communication with the outlet opening and separated from one another, wherein a second fluid communication path is established from the bore through the breather tube void space to the outlet opening.

23. The manifold of claim 22, wherein the manifold further comprises a flow diverter located within the housing and positioned axially between the bore of the fitting and the mouth of the filter element so as to be positioned within the fluid communication path, the flow diverter adapted to direct the fluid and at least a portion of the substance being drawn through the fluid communication path toward the substance collection volume.

24. A manifold for a medical waste collection system, the manifold comprising:

a housing defining a manifold volume;

an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume;

at least one fitting defining an aperture in fluid communication with the manifold volume; and

a filter element located within the housing and comprising a base forming a proximal end of the filter element, a mouth disposed opposite the base and forming a distal end of the filter element, and a basket extending between the base and the mouth and defining a basket void space in fluid communication with the outlet opening such that a fluid communication path is established from the bore of the fitting through the manifold volume and across the basket to the outlet opening; and

a breather tube coupled to the basket and positioned axially at least partially between the bore of the fitting and the mouth of the filter element, the breather tube defining a breather tube void space in fluid communication with the outlet opening and separate from the basket void space, each of the basket and the breather tube including a porous feature.

25. The manifold of claim 24, wherein a second fluid communication path is established from the aperture through the breather tube void space of the breather tube to the outlet opening such that suction is maintained through the second fluid communication path after substantially all of the porous feature of the basket is occluded by the trapped substance and the substance occupies substantially the basket void space so as to draw the fluid through the second fluid communication path.

26. The manifold of claim 24 or 25, wherein the breather tube comprises a tubular wall and a distal face coupled to the tubular wall such that the breather tube is generally concave relative to the filter mouth and the filter basket is generally convex relative to the filter mouth.

27. The manifold of claim 24 or 25, wherein the filter mouth defines a filter mouth plane, the breather tube extends distally from the filter mouth plane, and the filter basket extends proximally from the filter mouth plane.

28. The manifold of claim 27, wherein the manifold further comprises a tissue trap defining a material collection volume below the filter element, and the tissue trap comprises a protrusion, the tissue trap and the housing comprising complementary coupling features to removably couple the tissue trap with the housing to allow retrieval of material collected within the material collection volume.

29. A manifold for a medical waste collection system, the manifold comprising:

a housing comprising at least one sidewall and a panel that collectively define a manifold volume, wherein a longitudinal axis of the manifold extends proximally from the panel;

an outlet opening located within a proximal portion of the housing and in fluid communication with the manifold volume;

a filter element located within the housing and including a base forming a proximal end of the filter element, a mouth disposed opposite the base and forming a distal end of the filter element and spaced from the faceplate, a basket extending between the base and the mouth, and a porous feature located within the basket, wherein a bottom of the basket is defined on an axis a first distance from the longitudinal axis;

at least one fitting defining an aperture in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the fitting adapted to receive a suction line for drawing fluid into the manifold volume, wherein a fluid communication path is established from the aperture of the fitting through the manifold volume and across the filter element to the outlet opening such that the porous feature is adapted to capture matter entrained within the fluid as the fluid is drawn through the fluid communication path; and

a protrusion extending from the at least one sidewall to at least partially define a material collection volume within the housing, the protrusion comprising a transition and a surface coupled to the transition and positioned at a second distance from the longitudinal axis, the second distance being greater than the first distance such that when the fluid and the material are drawn through the fluid communication path, the material is collected within the material collection volume before encountering the mouth of the filter element.

30. The manifold of claim 29, wherein a depth of the matter collection volume is defined between a difference of the first distance and the second distance.

31. The manifold of claim 29 or 30, wherein a length of the matter collection volume is defined between the panel and the mouth of the filter element.

32. The manifold of claim 29 or 30, wherein the surface of the protrusion is a first surface and the transition comprises a second surface extending distally from the first surface, the first and second surfaces at least partially defining the matter collection volume.

33. The manifold of claim 29 or 30, wherein the protrusion is removably coupled with a tissue trap, the at least one sidewall of the housing comprising complementary coupling features to removably couple the tissue trap with the protrusion in the at least one sidewall of the housing to allow retrieval of material collected within the material collection volume without completely disassembling the housing.

34. The manifold of claim 29 or 30, wherein the filter element further comprises a breather tube coupled to the basket and positioned at least partially axially between the aperture of the fitting and the mouth of the filter element, and further positioned above the longitudinal axis opposite the matter collection volume, each of the basket and the breather tube comprising a porous feature.

35. The manifold of claim 34, wherein the basket defines a basket void space and the vent tube defines a vent tube void space, the void spaces being in fluid communication with the outlet opening and separated from one another, a second fluid communication path being established from the bore through the vent tube void space to the outlet opening; and

the manifold further comprises a flow diverter located within the housing and positioned axially between the bore of the fitting and the mouth of the filter element so as to be positioned within the fluid communication path, the flow diverter being adapted to direct at least a portion of the fluid and the substance being drawn through the fluid communication path towards the substance collection volume.

36. The manifold of claim 29 or 30, wherein the projection comprises a transition and a position coupled to the transition and located a second distance from the longitudinal axis, the second distance being greater than the first distance such that when the fluid is drawn through the fluid communication path, the substance is collected within the substance collection volume before encountering the mouth of the filter element.